The tax forms for international contractors aren't the same as those self-employed Americans sign. Instead of a W-9, each new foreign contractor should sign and submit Form W-8BEN, which certifies that they don't need to submit forms to the IRS because they aren't a citizen of the United States.
Factors that show you are an independent contractor include working with multiple clients instead of just one, not receiving detailed instructions from hiring firms, paying your own business expenses such as office and equipment expenses, setting your own schedule, marketing your services to the public, having all ...
In sum, hiring someone living abroad as an independent contractor or as an employee is possible but comes with due diligence requirements and various complex considerations. Companies should explore this option carefully and consult with local counsel.
You need an independent contractor agreement when you want to hire a contractor to perform work for your business. Many important services can be obtained by hiring a contractor instead of an employee. Some of these services include: App development.
Structure payments on a per-project basis, and require the contractor to submit invoices. Avoid salary payments, hourly payments, or any guaranteed “retainer” that is not tracked to performance. Specify the conditions for termination of the relationship—and do not make the arrangement terminable at will.
What to Include Party Details. The agreement will name the contractor and the client and provide the mailing addresses where invoices and correspondence can be sent. Term. The one-page contract must state the dates the contractual relationship begins and ends. Services. Compensation. Expenses. Signatures.
However, the IRS doesn't require a company to withhold taxes or report any income from an international contractor if the contractor is not a U.S. citizen and the services provided are outside the U.S. filing forms 1099 is required if: The contractor is located internationally but is a U.S. citizen.
Foreign vendors do not complete the Substitute Form W-9; foreign persons or entities must submit one of five available forms. The vendor must determine the one most appropriate to their United States tax status for reportable transactions.
Foreign independent contractors must submit IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E to certify their foreign status and claim any applicable tax treaty benefits. The US company may also need to file Form 1099-NEC if certain conditions are met, though this is more common for domestic contractors.